Insider’s Guide to Door County
Blossom season in Door County is a breathtaking spring tradition, typically peaking in mid to late May. As temperatures warm, thousands of cherry and apple trees burst into bloom across the peninsula, blanketing orchards in soft shades of white and pink. Scenic drives through towns like Fish Creek, Sturgeon Bay, and Jacksonport offer stunning views, while local markets begin to fill with fresh baked goods and early produce. It’s a favorite time for photographers, cyclists, and anyone looking to experience the quiet beauty of Door County before the summer crowds arrive.
Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Door County
Seaquist Orchards – Sister Bay
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country – Fish Creek
Peninsula State Park Scenic Overlooks – Fish Creek
Highway 42 between Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor
Schartner’s Farm Market – Carlsville
Choice Orchards – Sturgeon Bay
Cherry picking is one of Door County’s most beloved summer traditions, rooted in over a century of agricultural heritage. The region’s rich soil, lake-tempered climate, and rolling hills have made it a prime cherry-growing area since the late 1800s. By the 1950s, Door County was producing over 50 million pounds of cherries a year, earning it the nickname “Cherryland USA.”
Today, while fewer commercial orchards remain, the experience of hand-picking cherries is still a must-do for visitors and locals alike. The cherry-picking season typically runs from mid-July to early August, depending on weather conditions. Tart Montmorency cherries are the most common variety grown, ideal for baking, preserving, and snacking straight from the tree.
Top Cherry Picking Orchards in Door County
Seaquist Orchards – Sister Bay
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country – Fish Creek
Hyline Orchard – Fish Creek
Schartner’s Farm Market – Carlsville
Soren’s Valhalla Orchards – Sturgeon Bay
Choice Orchards – Sturgeon Bay
Apple picking in Door County is a crisp, colorful tradition that arrives just as the cherry season winds down. While Door County is best known for its cherries, apple orchards have been an essential part of the peninsula’s agricultural landscape for over a century. Thanks to the cool breezes off Lake Michigan and the fertile glacial soil, the region produces a variety of flavorful apples. The perfect ingredient for baking, cider-making or enjoying fresh off the tree.
The apple harvest typically runs from early September through mid-October, with varieties like McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Cortland, Jonagold, and Gala ripening at different points throughout the season. Many orchards also offer fresh cider, caramel apples, baked goods, and autumn-themed events.
Top Apple Picking Orchards in Door County
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country – Fish Creek
Hyline Orchard – Fish Creek
Seaquist Orchards – Sister Bay
Schartner’s Farm Market – Carlsville
Choice Orchards – Sturgeon Bay
Lavender Fields in Door County & Washington Island
Each summer, Door County’s northern tip transforms with vibrant shades of purple as lavender fields come into full bloom, offering a fragrant, photo-worthy escape. Lavender has become an increasingly popular crop in the area thanks to the peninsula’s cool breezes, well-drained soil, and long summer days. The blooming season typically peaks from late June through mid-July, but some varieties may linger into August.
The heart of Door County’s lavender scene lies on Washington Island, where fields stretch across peaceful rural landscapes and draw visitors from across the Midwest for their beauty, handmade products, and calming atmosphere.
Top Lavender Farms & Fields to Visit
Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm & Shop – Washington Island
Island Lavender Co. – Washington Island
Fall Colors in Door County: A Must Do Autumn Tradition
Fall in Door County is nothing short of magical. By late September through mid-October, the peninsula bursts into color, crimson maples, golden birches and fiery oaks paint the landscape in vivid hues. This tradition of “leaf-peeping” dates back decades, with locals and travelers alike timing their visits to align with peak color, often guided by local forecasts and community wisdom passed down over generations.
Thanks to the surrounding waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County enjoys a slightly extended foliage season, with microclimates giving trees on the lake side a different pace from those on the bay side. This means you can catch peak color in one part of the county, even if it’s past in another.
Best Hidden Spots for Fall Color Viewing
Sven’s Bluff – Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek
Ellison Bluff County Park – Ellison Bay
Door Bluff Headlands – Gills Rock
Kangaroo Lake Preserve – Baileys Harbor
Horseshoe Bay Farms – Egg Harbor
Washington Island Ferry Ride
Lighthouses of Door County – Locations & Highlights
Cana Island Lighthouse
Baileys Harbor
The most iconic and visited lighthouse in Door County. Built in 1869, Cana Island’s 89-foot tower can be climbed for sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Accessed by a causeway (walkable or by tractor shuttle depending on water levels).
dcmm.org/cana-island-lighthouse
Eagle Bluff Lighthouse
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek
Built in 1868 and perched high above Green Bay, this beautifully restored lighthouse offers guided tours that showcase the life of its early keepers.
eagleblufflighthouse.doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org
Old Baileys Harbor “Bird Cage” Lighthouse
Offshore in Baileys Harbor
Built in 1852, this abandoned lighthouse sits on a tiny island and is not open to the public but can be viewed by boat or kayak. It gets its nickname from the birdcage-style lantern room.
Baileys Harbor Range Lights
Ridges Sanctuary, Baileys Harbor
These paired lights, built in 1869, helped guide ships safely into the harbor. Located within The Ridges Sanctuary, you can walk to them via the boardwalk trail.
Sherwood Point Lighthouse
Sturgeon Bay
Built in 1883, this lighthouse marks the west entrance to Sturgeon Bay. It’s still an active Coast Guard station and is not open to the public, but visible from the water or by special tours during the Lighthouse Festival.
Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light
Sturgeon Bay
This vibrant red lighthouse at the end of a long pier is a favorite among photographers. Easily accessible and great for sunset views.
Sturgeon Bay Canal Lighthouse (Coast Guard Station)
Sturgeon Bay
Built in 1899, this white, square steel tower stands near the pierhead light. It’s part of the active Coast Guard station and visible from the road.
Plum Island Rear Range and Front Range Lights
Between Northport and Washington Island
These remote lights were used to guide ships through Death’s Door passage. While not easily accessible, they can be viewed from the Washington Island Ferry or boat tours.
Pottawatomie Lighthouse (Rock Island Light)
Rock Island State Park
Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1836. Accessible only by ferry to Washington Island, then a second ferry to Rock Island followed by a hike. Fully restored and open to the public in season.
Door County Lighthouse Map Link: https://cpd.typepad.com/doorcountystock/images/DoorCountyLighthouseMapDCCC.pdf
Where to Catch a Fish Boil in Door County
Few traditions capture the heart of Door County like the fish boil, a dramatic outdoor cooking experience that combines local flavor with rich Scandinavian heritage. Brought to the area by early Scandinavian settlers, fish boils were originally a practical way to feed large groups of lumberjacks and fishermen. Today, they’ve evolved into one of the peninsula’s most iconic culinary experiences.
The classic Door County fish boil features fresh Lake Michigan whitefish, potatoes, and onions, all boiled in a large kettle over an open fire. At just the right moment, the “boilover” is triggered by tossing kerosene onto the flames, causing the water to spill dramatically over the edge, removing excess fish oils and wowing guests gathered around. The meal is typically served with coleslaw, rye bread, and a slice of Door County cherry pie. Some locations require reservations, call ahead to save your spot!
Top Places to Experience a Fish Boil in Door County
Old Post Office Restaurant – Ephraim
White Gull Inn – Fish Creek
Pelletier’s Restaurant & Fish Boil – Fish Creek
Rowleys Bay Restaurant – Rowleys Bay
Waterfront Mary’s Bar & Grill – Sturgeon Bay
Fresh Picks & Local Shops
Pick from the best shops for souvenirs or home goods! From bustling farmers markets brimming with fresh produce and homemade treats to charming local shops offering artisan crafts and specialty goods, our peninsula is a treasure trove of unique finds. Whether you’re craving crisp, hand-picked fruits, handcrafted jewelry or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, this guide will help you discover the very best places to shop and savor the flavors of Door County.
Farmers Markets in Door County (2025 Summer Season Only)
Experience the vibrant local agriculture and community spirit at these farmers markets
Baileys Harbor Farmers Market
📍 Baileys Harbor Town Hall
Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | May – October
Enjoy a variety of local produce, baked goods, and crafts in a charming town setting.
Egg Harbor Farmers Market
📍 Hatch Distilling Co.
Fridays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | May – September
A lively market featuring fresh produce, artisanal products, and live music.
Ephraim Farmers Market
📍 10404 Water Street / Highway 42
Mondays, 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | mid-June – August
A quaint market offering local goods and a friendly atmosphere.
Fish Creek Farmers Market
📍 The Settlement Shops
Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | mid-May – October
Discover fresh produce and unique crafts in a picturesque setting.
Jacksonport Farmers Market
📍 Lakeside Park
Tuesdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | mid-May – October
A community-focused market with a variety of local vendors.
Sister Bay Farmers Market
📍 Corner of the Past Museum
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | mid-June – early October
Shop for fresh produce and handmade items in a historic setting.
Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market
📍 Downtown at 3rd Ave. & Nebraska St.
Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | June – October
A bustling market featuring a wide array of local products.
Washington Island Farmers Market
📍 Gathering Ground
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | mid-June – October
A charming island market offering fresh goods and island-made crafts.
Local Markets & Specialty Food Shops
Discover these beloved local markets offering fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty item
Piggly Wiggly – Sister Bay
📍 10576 Country Walk Dr, Sister Bay
A full-service grocery store with fresh produce, meats, deli items, and Door County specialties. A convenient one-stop shop for vacation essentials and local goods.
Seaquist Orchards Farm Market
📍 11482 Hwy 42, Sister Bay
Features a wide selection of cherry products, fresh baked goods, and seasonal produce from their expansive orchards.
Fish Creek Market
📍 4164 Main St, Fish Creek
A historic general store offering groceries, deli items, and unique gifts in the heart of Fish Creek.
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market
📍 9197 Hwy 42, Fish Creek
A family-owned market and winery offering fresh produce, wines, ciders, and specialty foods in a picturesque setting.
Main Street Market
📍 7770 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor
A full-service supermarket featuring fresh meats, seafood, produce, bakery items, and a wide selection of wines and spirits.
Wood Orchard Market
📍 8112 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor
Offers a variety of fresh fruits, including their signature SweeTango apples, along with jams, baked goods, and home décor.
Top Shopping Destinations
Explore Door County's unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops
Top of the Hill Shops
📍 9341 Spring Rd, Fish Creek
A collection of over 20 shops offering clothing, art, jewelry, and more in a charming village setting.
On Deck Clothing Company – Sister Bay
📍 10635 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay
This multi-store destination offers men’s and women’s apparel, footwear, and accessories from top brands like Tommy Bahama, Polo, and Woolrich—all set in a charming historic building.
Beach People – Ephraim
📍 9930 Water St (Hwy 42), Ephraim
A fun and vibrant shop for beachwear, Door County apparel, accessories, and souvenirs. A go-to for casual summer style and gifts for the whole family.
The Great Outdoors – Ephraim
📍 9930 Water St, Ephraim
Right next to Beach People, this rustic-inspired shop features home décor, custom apparel, local artwork, and unique gifts rooted in outdoor and lodge-style charm.
Founder's Square
- 📍 4192 Main St, Fish Creek
A historic shopping area featuring a variety of boutiques, eateries, and specialty stores.
Liberty Square Shops
📍 7755 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor
Offers a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and galleries in a beautifully landscaped setting
Patricia Shoppe
📍 7681 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor
A boutique offering a curated selection of women’s fashion, jewelry, and accessories.
Nan & Jerry’s
📍 4164 Main St, Fish Creek
A go-to spot for Door County apparel, souvenirs, and outdoor gear.
Live Music & Local Performances
Music is woven into the soul of Door County. Echoing from lakeside stages, tucked-away taverns, and historic halls. Whether you’re swaying to live jazz at sunset, enjoying a bluegrass set with a local brew, or taking in a breathtaking classical concert in an old chapel or concert hall, there’s a rhythm here for every listener. From summer’s outdoor jams to elegant orchestral performances, Door County keeps the music playing all season long.
Classical & Chamber Music
Peninsula Music Festival
📍 Door Community Auditorium, Fish Creek
August 5–23, 2025
Celebrating its 73rd season, this festival presents nine symphonic concerts over three weeks, featuring world-class musicians under the direction of Maestro Rune Bergmann. Highlights include works by Copland, Rachmaninoff, Gershwin, and Mahler.
Midsummer’s Music Festival
📍 Various venues across Door County
Summer 2025
Wisconsin’s oldest summer chamber music series, celebrating its 35th season, offers over 40 concerts in scenic locations, performed by musicians from renowned orchestras.
Washington Island Music Festival
📍 Trueblood Performing Arts Center, Washington Island
August 4–15, 2025
This festival features world-class musicians presenting chamber music concerts, open rehearsals, and community outreach programs.
Outdoor & Contemporary Concerts
Alpine Resort Concert Series
📍 Egg Harbor
June–October 2025
Hosting 29 concerts in a waterfront tent, the series includes Wednesday night performances spanning rock, pop, blues, bluegrass, and swing, along with Country Music Mondays in July and August.
Fishstock Concert Series
📍 Fish Creek
June 29–August 31, 2025
Held in a historic barn, this series features a range of artists in a unique setting.
Sister Bay Concerts in the Park
📍 Waterfront Park, Sister Bay
Wednesdays, June 18–August 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM
Enjoy free concerts by various bands, including Kyle Megna & The Monsoons, Copper Box, and 7000apart, set against the backdrop of spectacular sunsets.
Music Festivals
Sól Grass Music Festival
📍 Washington Island Campground
June 13–14, 2025
A bluegrass festival featuring live performances and camping options, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like a swimming pond and mini-golf.
Door County Folk Festival
📍 Various locations in Door County
July 11–13, 2025
This festival includes dance workshops, singing, and music sessions, fostering a community atmosphere with participants from the Midwest and beyond.
Indoor Venues & Performances
Door Community Auditorium
📍 Fish Creek
Hosting a variety of performances, including classical concerts, lectures, and contemporary music acts.
Door County Brewing Co. Taproom & Music Hall
📍 Baileys Harbor
Offers live music events featuring local and regional artists in a relaxed setting.
Top Spots for Wine Lovers in Door County
Stone’s Throw Winery
3382 County Rd E, Baileys Harbor
Stone’s Throw Winery specializes in handcrafted wines made from premium California grapes. Visitors can enjoy tastings, explore the sculpture garden, and dine at their onsite restaurants offering Italian-inspired cuisine.
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market
9197 Hwy 42, Fish Creek
This family-owned winery produces award-winning fruit wines from estate-grown cherries, apples, and grapes. The market offers a variety of local products, including fresh bakery items, artisan cheeses, and jams.
Anchored Roots Vineyard & Winery
4873 Willow Rd, Egg Harbor
As one of Door County’s newer wineries, Anchored Roots combines Wisconsin-grown grapes with those from Washington State to produce a variety of wines. Their timber-framed tasting room offers an inviting space for visitors.
Harbor Ridge Winery
4690 Rainbow Ridge Ct, Egg Harbor
Harbor Ridge offers a cozy tasting room with a selection of red, white, and fruit wines. The winery also features a gift shop with local crafts and gourmet products.
Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery
5896 Bochek Rd, Sturgeon Bay
Simon Creek is known for its serene setting and a range of wines from dry reds to sweet fruit blends. The winery often hosts live music events, enhancing the tasting experience.
Door 44 Winery
5464 County Rd P, Sturgeon Bay
Door 44 focuses on cold-climate grape varietals, producing crisp whites and balanced reds. Their modern tasting room provides panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Red Oak Winery
3017 Enterprise Dr, Sturgeon Bay
Red Oak offers a diverse range of wines, from semi-sweet to dry reds and whites. The bistro-style tasting room provides a relaxed atmosphere for sampling their selections.
Door Peninsula Winery
5806 Hwy 42, Carlsville
Established in 1974, Door Peninsula Winery is one of Wisconsin’s oldest and largest wineries. They offer a vast selection of fruit and grape wines, including their renowned Sweet Cherry and Hallowine. The winery also features a distillery and a spacious tasting room.
Spot Aurora Borealis in Door County: A Natural Light Show
Best Viewing Locations
Newport State Park – Ellison Bay
Washington Island
Rock Island State Park
Cana Island Causeway – Baileys Harbor
Door Bluff Headlands – Gills Rock
Fishing & Ice Fishing
What You Can Catch
Spring/Fall Species
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Northern Pike
- Yellow Perch
- Steelhead & Brown Trout
- Chinook & Coho Salmon
- Lake Trout
Winter/Ice Fishing Species
- Whitefish
- Perch
- Walleye
- Northern Pike
- Burbot
Top Ice Fishing & Open-Water Spots
Sturgeon Bay
Little Sturgeon Bay
Sawyer Harbor
Egg Harbor & Fish Creek Shorelines
Rowley’s Bay
Washington Island
Guided Fishing & Rentals
Hooked Up Sport Fishing Charters – Sturgeon Bay
Wacky Walleye Guide Service – Little Sturgeon
J-E Fishing Enterprises – Washington Island
License & Regulations
You’ll need a valid Wisconsin fishing license and additional stamps for trout or Great Lakes fishing depending on your target. Visit gowild.wi.gov to purchase online.
Hunting Seasons in Door County (2025–2026)
Door County’s blend of natural beauty and abundant wildlife makes it a prime destination for hunters. Whether you’re tracking deer through dense forests or calling turkeys in open fields, the peninsula offers a memorable hunting experience. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees hunting seasons statewide.
Key dates for Door County include
Deer Hunting
- Archery & Crossbow: Sept. 13, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
- Gun Season: Nov. 22–30, 2025
- Muzzleloader: Dec. 1–10, 2025
- Antlerless-Only Holiday Hunt: Dec. 24, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026
Spring Turkey
- Youth Hunt: April 12–13, 2025
- Regular Season: April 16 – May 27, 2025 (divided into six one-week periods)
Small Game
- Squirrels & Rabbits: Sept. 13, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026
- Pheasant: Oct. 18, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
For comprehensive details and updates, visit the Wisconsin DNR Hunting Regulations.
Prime Hunting Locations
Gardner Swamp Wildlife Area
Door County Land Trust Preserves
Several preserves permit hunting, including:
- Three Springs Nature Preserve (Sister Bay)
- Lautenbach Woods (Egg Harbor)
- Heins Creek Nature Preserve (Baileys Harbor)
- Legacy Nature Preserve at Clay Banks
These areas offer diverse terrains and are open for various hunting seasons.
Door County Parks
Hunting-Friendly Accommodations
Gustave's Getaway
Door County Cabin Rentals
Link to the Destination Door County 2025 Official Guide
https://xdigital.spiweb.com/publication/?i=839477&p=0&view=issueViewer
Looking for events, seasonal festivals, or what’s happening during your stay?
Visit the Door County Visitor Bureau for up-to-date listings and experiences.